Longview council approves $3 million fund-balance allocation for Stamford Park pool after 4–3 vote

The Longview City Council on March 27 approved an ordinance amending the fiscal year 2024–25 budget to allocate an additional $3,000,000 from the city's fund balance for construction of a public swimming pool at Stamford Park, passing the measure 4 to 3.

Councilmember Shannon Moore, who moved the ordinance, said the city has already spent money on design work and that the council had committed to the project: "We are committed to this project," Moore said, noting the city had entered a design contract "with Kimley and Horn for, almost half a million dollars. So far paid out is a hundred and $39,000."

The vote capped a lengthy public comment period in which dozens of residents—many from South Longview—urged passage for reasons including youth access and learn-to-swim programs, while others warned the expenditure would reduce reserves needed for streets, public safety equipment and future matching grants.

Why it matters: Council members who opposed the amendment argued the city's fund balance should be preserved for essential infrastructure and to…